THE success of the 2026 Coastline Bank Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards was measured by more than trophies and accolades, according to Business Port Macquarie executive officer Kylie Morris.
Following the gala event, Ms Morris reflected on the months of planning and the collective effort required to deliver one of the region’s premier celebrations of business excellence.
“Again and again, people have spoken about the sense of support, encouragement and genuine celebration they felt throughout the evening,” Ms Morris said.
“Business owners cheered for one another.
“Finalists celebrated each other’s success.
“Connections were made, stories were shared, and for a few hours, we were reminded that while business can sometimes feel competitive, our community is at its best when we support one another and celebrate together.”
Ms Morris described the atmosphere in the room as the true measure of the event’s success.
“For me, that was the true success of the awards.”
The awards program was the culmination of three months of preparation involving a large team of volunteers, sponsors, performers, event specialists and business supporters.
Ms Morris paid tribute to the Business Port Macquarie Board for its support and thanked Emma Walker, who worked alongside her throughout the awards program.
“From social media and communications to the countless behind-the-scenes tasks that nobody sees from launch event to gala, Emma’s contribution has been invaluable,” she said.
Most importantly, Ms Morris thanked the businesses that entered the awards.
“Whether you were named a finalist, took home a trophy, or simply challenged yourself to put your story on paper, you contributed to something much bigger than an awards program,” she said.
“You helped showcase the innovation, resilience, leadership and ambition that exists throughout our region, and that is something worth celebrating.”
By Sis HIGGINS
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
